[Coronary fistulae (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Coronary fistulae are abnormal connections between a coronary artery and a heart chamber or major vessel.
• These anomalies can range from asymptomatic to causing significant hemodynamic disturbances.
• The incidence and specific types of coronary fistulae, such as coronary-pulmonary fistulae, require detailed case study.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and radiological characteristics of three patients with coronary fistulae.
• To specifically detail the rare case of a coronary-pulmonary double fistula.
• To enhance understanding of the diagnostic and imaging features of these uncommon cardiac anomalies.

Main Methods:

• Case series review of three patients diagnosed with coronary fistulae.
• Analysis of clinical data, including patient history and physical examination findings.
• Review of diagnostic imaging modalities such as echocardiography, computed tomography angiography (CTA), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Main Results:

• Three patients with coronary fistulae were identified and analyzed.
• One patient exhibited a rare coronary-pulmonary double fistula, a previously undocumented or infrequently reported variant.
• Diagnostic imaging revealed specific radiological signs consistent with the fistulous tracts and their connections.

Conclusions:

• Coronary fistulae, including rare variants like coronary-pulmonary double fistulae, necessitate thorough clinical evaluation and advanced imaging.
• Radiological signs are crucial for accurate diagnosis and characterization of coronary fistulae.
• Understanding these features aids in appropriate patient management and treatment strategies.